Electric vehicles are embracing a nostalgic flair with a modern twist, as Volkswagen introduces a unique special edition in its electric lineup before fully transitioning to the iconic GTI badge for future performance EVs. The new ID.3 GTX Fire+Ice brings a bold nod to the past, drawing direct inspiration from the memorable early 1990s Volkswagen Golf Fire and Ice model. This limited-edition version evolves from last year’s vibrant concept and marks a final spotlight on the short-lived GTX badge, blending retro style with contemporary electric performance.
Unlike the shimmering finish of the original concept, the production Fire+Ice model opts for a more traditional yet eye-catching Ultra Violet Metallic paint. Despite toning down the flashy look, the car retains several distinctive design details that give it character. These include a custom logo on the rear spoiler, subtle transparent matte decals on the C-pillars, and a striking Flaming Red roof strip that stands out against the violet body. Along the sides, bold GTX | FIRE & ICE lettering ties the design together, complemented by sleek 20-inch Locarno alloy wheels featuring anodized accents that match the paintwork perfectly.
The interior reflects the same two-tone color theme first seen on the concept, splitting the cabin into a vibrant Fire Red on the driver’s side and a calming Keep Cool Blue on the passenger side. While the original jacket-style zippers on the front seats were functional in the concept, they now serve a purely decorative purpose, preserving the stylistic homage. Additional interior highlights include contrast stitching, bespoke puddle lights, and a host of premium features. Buyers can expect sport seats with massage functionality, an augmented reality head-up display, a powerful Harman Kardon sound system, and an advanced suite of driver assistance technologies.
In terms of performance, the ID.3 GTX Fire+Ice mirrors the existing GTX and GTX Performance trims. It is equipped with a single rear-mounted electric motor that offers either 282 horsepower or a more potent 322 horsepower variant. The top-spec version accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and benefits from the DCC adaptive chassis system for enhanced handling. Despite this, it remains slower than the more affordable Golf R, which completes the sprint in 4.6 seconds. The Fire+Ice is powered by a 79 kWh battery pack, delivering a WLTP range of up to 591 kilometers and supports fast DC charging at rates of up to 185 kW.
The Fire+Ice edition is a clear tribute to the 1990 VW Golf Fire and Ice, a collaboration with fashion designer Willy Bogner, which originally impressed buyers with its distinct color scheme and was offered in several trims including the GTI. Volkswagen sold an impressive 16,700 units—well above the initial target of 10,000—making the new ID.3 Fire+Ice even rarer with a production cap of just 1,990 units. This modern release continues the legacy through a partnership with the performance apparel brand BOGNER FIRE+ICE.
Pricing for the ID.3 GTX Fire+Ice starts at €56,020 in Germany, representing a premium of €8,795 over the standard GTX trim. It is also more expensive than the gasoline-powered Golf R, underscoring its position as the most exclusive and costly ID.3 variant available on the market today.